Anti-Poison Ivy Cures

The leaves of the poison ivy plant are typically found in clumps of three, and contain sap-like matter that causes irritation and a rash on the skin. The only true cure for poison ivy is prevention by protecting your skin from exposure to the plant, but if your skin does come into contact with this plant, you will need treatment for the rash that will develop within 12 to 72 hours. This rash typically last one to four weeks.

Oral

• Oral antihistamines are prescribed by doctors to aid in the treatment of poison ivy. The medicine helps to soothe the effects of poison ivy from the inside out by making the itching and discomfort that accompanies the rash bearable. Be aware of common side effects of antihistamines, such as drowsiness.

Topical Treatments

• Topical treatments for poison ivy are easy to find at your local pharmacy. They consist of creams, lotions and sprays that contain anti-itch formulas. Curing the itch is important to prevent skin infections due to extreme scratching. Topical creams and lotions that contain the substances menthol and benzocaine work well to control the itching, but they must be applied several times a day to provide relief. Sprays and creams that contain hydrocortisone reduce the swelling of the skin around the area of the rash. Calamine lotion works by drying the irritated skin, effectively soothing the immediate itch and drying out the rash.

Natural Remedies

• Natural cures for poison ivy consist of taking oatmeal baths and soaking in a tub of warm water and baking soda. If possible, wash the affected areas promptly after exposure to try to prevent a rash from forming or spreading to too many areas of the body. If an uncomfortable rash does develop, soak in a bath with these natural ingredients to suppress itching for extended lengths of time; usually several hours of relief can be obtained.